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Reviewed By
Jenna Zebrowski, JD, MBA
Attorney
Jenna Zebrowski is a JD/MBA graduate from Texas Tech University School of Law. After working in Mexico City for 3 years, she returned to the US and spent over a decade working in-house for large and small companies, including franchises, in a real estate leasing capacity, as well as in the mortgage and title industries. In private practice since 2019, Jenna is passionate about advocacy and protection for her clients’ rights, working collaboratively towards problem prevention, and solution, when necessary.
The CIV-153 Order on Application to Be Relieved as Attorney form is used in the context of limited scope representation in civil cases in California. Typically, this form is necessary when an attorney, who has been representing a client under a limited scope agreement, has completed the agreed-upon tasks and seeks to formally withdraw from the case as counsel.
- Trigger Event: The attorney completes all tasks agreed upon in the limited scope representation contract.
- Prerequisite Form: Form CIV-151 Application to Be Relieved as Attorney on Completion of Limited Scope Representation should be filed prior to this order.
- Possible Accompanying Forms: A blank Objection to Application to Be Relieved as Attorney on Completion of Limited Scope Representation (form CIV-152) may need to be served to the client.
Filing the CIV-153 is the final step to officially formalize the end of the attorney's role in the client's case. This allows the client to represent themselves in further matters or to hire another attorney.
1. Complete the Form: Fill out the CIV-153 form with all required information, ensuring that the attorney's and client's details, case numbers, and court address are accurate.
2. Serve the Client: Serve the client with the completed form CIV-153, along with a copy of form CIV-151 and a blank copy of form CIV-152, either personally or via mail.
3. Return Address: Ensure the client’s mailing address on the form is current, as they will need to manage their own case upon approval of the application.
4. File with the Court: Submit the completed CIV-153 form to the Superior Court handling the case. Check specific local court rules for electronic or in-person filing procedures.
5. Proof of Service: After filing, serve all parties involved with a copy of the signed order and file a proof of service with the court to demonstrate all necessary notifications have been completed.
Service Confirmation
Ensure that you have correctly and fully served the client with both the Application to Be Relieved as Attorney and a blank Objection form. This proves that the client had an opportunity to object if they wished to. Double-check addresses to avoid disputes.
Objection Response
If there was an objection filed by the client, ensure you prepare documentation or a clear explanation to show how you have completed your obligations under the Notice of Limited Scope Representation. Missing this step can delay or complicate your release process.
Effective Date Consideration
Decide and clearly mark when you are relieved as an attorney: immediately, upon proof of service, or on a specific date. This choice affects when you cease to be legally responsible for the client’s case. Ensure this aligns with your case and client handling situation.
Additional Orders Insight
If the judge uses this section, pay close attention to any special conditions or actions required. These are court orders that must be adhered to, separate from the standard process of being relieved as an attorney.
Client Address Accuracy
Verify the current mailing address of your client listed here. A wrong address can lead to missed communications or further legal complications for your client, as any future court documents will be sent here.
1
Ensure that you have served copies of the signed order to all parties involved in the case, as specified in the notice to the attorney.
2
File the proof of service with the court to confirm that all parties have been notified accordingly.
3
Wait for any potential objections from the client or other parties; these objections should be expected within the time prescribed under rule 3.36 of the California Rules of Court.
4
If no objections are filed, monitor the effective date specified in the order for when you are officially relieved as the attorney.
5
Once the order becomes effective and if representing the client in all aspects of the case is necessary, ensure the client is aware they will need to proceed with self-representation or hire new counsel.
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The information provided on this website/page is for general informational purposes only. It should not be construed as legal advice, nor does it create an attorney-client relationship between the author and any readers or users of this content.
